Image via @FilmUpdates Twitter
In an upcoming biopic, Michael Jackson’s nephew Jaafar Jackson will play the late King of Pop.
The information was released by Antoine Fuqua, who was previously identified by Deadline as the director of a movie (planned title: Michael) based on the life of the well-known singer.
“Proud to announce [Jaafar Jackson] as Michael — the motion picture event that explores the journey of the man who became the King of Pop. Coming soon,” Fuqua said on Monday when sharing a Jourdynn Jackson-captured photo of the actor, whose father is Jermaine Jackson, in action.
Jaafar also posted the same image at the same time, along with a statement expressing his appreciation for the chance.
“I’m humbled and honored to bring my Uncle Michael’s story to life,” he said. “To all the fans all over the world, I’ll see you soon.”
Fuqua is anticipated to start filming Michael later in 2023, according to Deadline, which reported this on Monday. He is currently finishing the third installment of the Denzel Washington-starring Equalizer trilogy.
Notably, both Graham King, the co-producer of Bohemian Rhapsody, and MJ’s estate are associated with this movie. Fans of Freddie Mercury will recall that Rami Malek’s performance in that biopic finally resulted in an Oscar win, so it’s safe to say that expectations are similarly high for the MJ movie, which will be directed by Fuqua.